Moving Checklist - What to do Before Moving (Part 1/4)

Congratulations, new Homeowner! You've reached an exciting part of your life and have come a long way. While it may seem that the majority of the work in getting to this position is over (signing that ream of paper, where you tired out your John Hancock at the closing table), the work's not done. There are many things that go into moving and some things you should be aware of now that you own a home and are no longer renting!

Moving Checklist - Do Immediately, Without Delay!

One of the most important things that need addressing is Access. Now that you have the keys, invest in new locks and deadbolts to change the entry keys. When purchasing a home, you never know who may have a copy of the old key and certainly don't want any guests or surprises - in addition, if you purchased a HUD Foreclosure, many of the keysets that HUD uses are used on other properties as well, giving access to anyone with a HUD key. If you're handy, go it on your own - or, if you need a bit of help, search 'Rekey' in your city for reputable locksmiths. For peace of mind, go ahead and change those locks.

You'll need to adress some other basic items to set up your move and transition:

• Change your address with the Post Office (or online at USPS.com)
• Contact your old utility companies to cancel service and/or change service addresses (this includes gas, electric, water/garbage/sewer, internet)
• Request some quotes from reputable moving companies, if you choose to hire
• Get moving boxes and rent that moving truck (if you're the DIY kind)

Now is a good time to take a moment and inventory all of your things. Valuables and posessions should always have protection (remember that renters insurance you had?). Knowing your stuff's value will be vital for insurance purposes.

I'll be checking back in with Part 2 of Your Moving Checklist, which will cover other broad items to consider when moving into a home. In the meantime, happy moving!